Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
FIG 3.9
Squash and stretch is
evident in the cheeks and chin of the
figure. The use of squash and stretch
can also help generate the illusion
of weight.
object to a figure running or jumping will express varying levels of squash
and stretch.
Let's consider the movement of a very heavy character such as a giant ogre
as he takes a stride. The entire figure may squash down slightly on impact,
making him look heavy and cumbersome. Lighter characters, such as fairies,
may need to demonstrate less squash, since they are infinitely lighter than
giants.
Before animators began using this technique, animation was rather wooden,
stiff, and awkward. When used clumsily, squash and stretch may result in
all the animation flexing and bending with no real objective and to no real
effect. Some of the early animators tended to flex all aspects of a figure almost
indiscriminately, resulting in what became known as
rubber-hose animation
.
This was because characters ended up with limbs with little or no structure—no
shoulders, elbows, or knees, just bendy tubes rather like … well, rubber hose.
The use of squash and stretch may enhance movement, whereas in nature
no such action would be evident. A bouncing ball on impact with the
ground would clearly flex and squash downward, but as the ball begins its
fall, its shape will remain spherical. However, if the animator chooses to add
